Security & Safety Manager

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) is a renowned cultural institution dedicated to providing exceptional performing arts experiences in Nashville, Tennessee. As a hub for creativity and cultural enrichment, TPAC hosts a diverse range of performances, including theater, music, and dance, attracting artists and audiences from across the nation. The center comprises multiple venues, such as Andrew Jackson Hall, James K. Polk Theater, and Andrew Johnson Theater, each tailored to accommodate a variety of artistic productions and events. TPAC is committed to inclusivity, creative excellence, innovation, collaboration, and purposeful service, values that are embedded in every aspect of its operations and community engagement. The organization prides itself on creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals who visit or work at its facilities, ensuring that artistic expression can flourish in a secure and well-managed setting.

The Security & Safety Manager position at TPAC is a full-time, exempt role reporting directly to the Director of Security & Safety. This critical leadership position is responsible for maintaining and overseeing the security operations across all TPAC-managed venues on a daily basis, as well as during various events held at the center. The manager plays a vital role in safeguarding employees, guests, production crews, performers, and the public by implementing best practices in security and safety management. They provide guidance and supervision to security staff and ensure all activities align with TPAC's high standards for safety and operational excellence.

This role demands a proactive approach, combining both visible and invisible security measures alongside advanced technology, including CCTV and access control systems. The manager collaborates closely with the Director of Security & Safety and other TPAC departments to coordinate staffing, training, scheduling, and incident management. They also serve as the manager on duty during assigned events, acting as a key point of contact for emergency preparedness and response. The position requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and some holidays, reflecting the dynamic nature of arts venues and event schedules.

With responsibility extending from daily venue security to emergency incidents such as medical emergencies and fire alarm activations, the Security & Safety Manager must maintain a calm, authoritative presence and decisive problem-solving skills. The role also involves administrative duties like staff hiring support, training programs, shift management, and billing oversight for both internal teams and contracted security personnel. Investigations of incidents within the venues necessitate thorough documentation and collaborative communication with guests, staff, contractors, and management.

Ideal candidates bring 3 to 5 years of security and crowd management experience with prior managerial roles preferred. A Tennessee unarmed security license is required, and familiarity with theater or similar venues, event security, shift coordination, and security technology is highly desirable. Certifications such as CPR and First Aid are advantageous, as is experience with software platforms including Microsoft Office Suite, Momentus Elite, ADP Workforce Now, and WhenIWork.

Working conditions for this role are diverse; the manager splits time between office environments and active presence in venues and theaters, ready to respond in a variety of physical settings. Tasks may involve ascending stairs, standing for extended periods, working in low light conditions, and handling equipment or materials up to 50 pounds. The ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions further underscores the physically demanding aspects of the role. TPAC fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace where merit-based practices guide all employment decisions, ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of background or protected characteristics.